Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 252

Hattie's zither performances are undeniably enjoyable.

Nonetheless, as previously noted by Darwin, her playing lacks a sense of connection between herself and the music. Her emphasis seems to be solely on demonstrating her technical prowess, resulting in a noticeable absence of emotion. A zither piece without emotion is dry.

The technique is crucial, but achieving top-tier musical tones also requires time for maturation and refinement. Many aspects are perceptible to listeners attuned to music.

The music concluded.

Darwin applauded, "Well done, Miss. Your dedication to zither practice is evident. Yet, I can only award you eight points."

Hattie's expression darkened, her gaze intense.

"Why?" she inquired.

Darwin responded, "I've already explained my reasons earlier. I prefer not to repeat myself."

"Violeta, please."

While Hattie was performing on the zither moments ago, Violeta had already applied her finger picks.

She offered the owner a slight smile, saying, "Okay."

Then, she cast her eyes down to the strings, mentally tracing the musical score. Her initial notes mirrored Hattie's exactly.

However, as the piece progressed into its middle section, distinctions began to emerge.

Hattie's rendition of "Beyond the Ridge" lacked depth in its complex emotional shifts.

However, Violeta's performance highlighted the emotional changes within the music and contrasts in dynamics when plucking the strings.

As Darwin listened, his satisfaction grew steadily.

The primary distinction between Violeta and Hattie lies herein.

Although both possessed impeccable skills, the divergence lay in this aspect.

Darwin gazed at Violeta with growing admiration, while Hattie struggled to discern what made Violeta's performance stand out.

She was slightly taken aback by Violeta's ability to play the zither. However, apart from that, she didn't find Violeta's performance particularly impressive.

The music concluded.

Kaylee enthusiastically clapped beside them, "Clap clap clap!"

"Vio, your performance was outstanding!"

Darwin chimed in with praise, "Excellent job, Violeta. You have a deep understanding of this piece. It's remarkable to see someone your age play with such skill.

"I'm giving you a perfect ten!"

Hattie was taken aback.

She abruptly stood up from her chair and exclaimed, "Why? Where do Violeta and I differ in the completeness of this piece?"

Darwin sighed, "Emotion."

He continued, "When Violeta plays, the piece showcases emotional changes and stark contrasts in string plucking. Hattie, that's where the gap lies between you two."

Hattie was utterly baffled!

Indeed, she was perplexed.

The key difference between her and Violeta was decades of experience.

While Hattie had devoted many years to mastering the zither, so had Violeta. The distinction lay in the amount of time Violeta had invested, not less than Hattie. Music, like people, requires accumulation.